Challenges and available solutions against organized cyber-crime and terrorist networks

Organized Crime (OC) and Terrorist Networks (TN) have risen to major and persistent threats for the European Union and its population. The IT growth of the past decade caused a migration of OC/TN to the cyber domain as well as the introduction of cybercrime. As a consequence, the technological dimensions of criminal activities are becoming more relevant and challenges ranging from the identification of criminal activities up to the understanding of engagement processes, are even more complicated. In this context, this paper aims to provide a discussion on OC and TN by pointing out organizational models, similarities, distinguishing features and differences in terms of their objectives. Furthermore, the main issues and available categories of solutions, in terms of models, methods and software tools are described. Finally, the importance of innovative digital and non-digital solutions is discussed as well as the current research directions are highlighted.